Monthly Archives: September 2012

“Thousands and Hundreds of years if you want to enjoy the fruits and happiness of life, then take up
systematic planting of trees”. (Rig-Veda)

Trees have played a major role in the religious and mythological manifestations of Indian Culture and
mythology as they are considered to be of great value in the sustenance of life as well as preservation
of nature. Since times immemorial trees have been regarded as the symbol of life and growth and has
been associated with wisdom and immortality in India.

Trees have been eulogized in Indian mythology and folklore and several volumes have been written in
several Indian languages praising the importance of trees in our daily existence. For religious bent of
mind Indians, trees are worshipped and are considered to be sacred. Even on certain festivals, trees
are like Tulsi are worshipped and leaves of certain trees such as Neem are tied across the door as it is
considered to be auspicious. In fact, Tulsi is there in every household and women traditionally worship it
for their overall-well-being.

Trees considered to be sacred and having multifarious benefits as well as medicinal qualities have
highly praised in the Vedas, Puranas as well as Epics. For instance, Guatama Buddha received his
“Englightment” under the sacred Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. Even today, the location is identified with
Knowledge, Wisdom as well as Enlightenment.

“Trees with flowers and fruits satisfy this world. Those who donate a tree are given salvation by the
same trees in the other world.” (Mahabharata).